Rolando McClain: I need to get my personal life in order

May 16, 2013
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This booking photograph released by the Decatur, Ala. Police Department, shows NFL linebacker Rolando McClain, who was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest after a disturbance in a park on Sunday, April 21, 2013. McClain, who played at Alabama, is now with the Baltimore Ravens following his release by the Oakland Raiders. / Decatur (Ala.) Police Department

by Mike Garafolo, USA TODAY Sports

by Mike Garafolo, USA TODAY Sports

Rolando McClain's football career has been a disappointment. His personal life has also been a mess.

In a statement Thursday, one day after he "retired" from the Baltimore Ravens in the wake of his third arrest in 16 months, McClain, 23, said his priority right now is cleaning up his off-field situation. The linebacker said he hopes one day he will be on the field again.

"Clearly, my decision to retire has raised some questions. Quite simply, I love football, but I have decided at this time it is in my best interest to focus on getting my personal life together," McClain's statement read. "Beyond that, I'm not sure what the future holds for me, including football."

The former eighth overall pick of the Oakland Raiders flashed some potential in 2011, when he recorded a career-high five sacks and was credited with 99 tackles. But last season was a disaster, and he was kicked out of practice and suspended after getting into an argument with head coach Dennis Allen.

The Raiders cut McClain this off-season. The Ravens, who had to find a way to replace Ray Lewis, offered McClain a chance at redemption with a minimum salary and no guaranteed money.

McClain's arrest in April for disorderly conduct -- Decatur, Ala., police claim he yelled "F--- the police!" at officers responding to an incident in a public park -- came 10 days after Baltimore signed him.

"This was entirely my decision and the Ravens have been very supportive during this process. I am very grateful for the opportunity they gave me and wish them the best of luck in the future," McClain said. "God willing, maybe I'll play for them one day."